VAN NISTELROOY HAILS FERGUSON

The former United striker who scored 150 goals in 219 appearances for the Red Devils, has hailed Sir Alex Ferguson for his longevity at the club and his ability to get the very best out of his squad, as players and people..

He said this at an event to unveil a statue of the 70-year-old at Old Trafford. 

"It's great to be back," the Dutchman told reporters. "Especially as it is to pay respect to the manager, who deserves all the credit for today. He's the reason we are here.

"I had a great five years [at Manchester United] and I want to pay my respects. I'm very grateful for the chances Sir Alex gave me. 

He described the Scot's Old Trafford reign as "out of this world. "It is incredible," he said. "It is difficult to get your head around. Twenty-six seasons!

"Ten years in football is an awful long time for a manager to be at a club. He is going on and on. In three or four years we will be talking about 30 years. It is out of this world.

However he's doing it. As he said,"he has outlived death. He is outliving everyone." he said.

credit:Goal.com